the ultmate guide to eloping in japan.
Discover how to get married in Japan with my step-by-step guide covering legal procedures, seasonal wedding ideas, and real-life inspiration for an unforgettable elopement.
Why Choose Japan?
If you’re wondering how to get married in Japan, you’re in the right place. Japan offers an exceptional mix of tradition and modernity that makes getting married in Japan a truly unforgettable experience.
In this guide, you’ll find expert advice on how to get married in japan – from understanding legal procedures at a city hall to planning an outdoor symbolic ceremony.
I also cover seasonal wedding ideas and provide real elopement insights to help you decide how to get married in japan in a way that reflects your personal style.
legal requirements &
step by step process.
Understanding the legal requirements is a crucial first step when planning how to get married in Japan. In this section, you’ll discover a clear, step-by-step process that guides you through gathering the necessary documents, completing the kon’in todoke at your local city hall, and ensuring your marriage is officially recognised.
1. Legal Registration via Kon’in Todoke at a City Hall.
Gather Your Documents.
To learn how to get married in japan legally, first gather all required documents. For foreigners such as Americans, secure a valid passport, an official birth certificate, and a Certificate of No Impediment from your home country. In addition, ensure you notarize and translate these documents into Japanese using a certified translator.
Prepare and Complete the Marriage Registration Form.
Next, obtain the kon’in todoke marriage registration form from your local city hall or ward office. Many offices provide bilingual forms or offer assistance through staff. Then, complete the form accurately and have both partners sign it; if needed, arrange for a witness or notary.
Submit Your Application at the City Hall.
After completing the form, schedule an appointment or visit the city hall to submit your completed form along with all supporting documents. The staff reviews your submission and may ask for clarifications. This step ensures your application is ready for processing.
recieve your marriage certificate.
Finally, the city hall processes your application, and you receive your official marriage certificate. This certificate proves how to get married in japan legally and officially confirms your union.
2. Legal Registration Done Abroad with a Symbolic Ceremony in Japan.
Complete legal marriage at home.
If you prefer, you can complete your legal marriage in your home country by following your local marriage laws, ensuring that your union is fully recognised before you travel to Japan.
plan symbolic ceremony.
Organise a fully customised symbolic ceremony in Japan that reflects your personal style; choose an outdoor setting or culturally significant site such as a shrine or scenic location to capture the essence of a modern Japanese elopement.
celebrate!
Celebrate your marriage in Japan with a heartfelt, symbolic ceremony that focuses on your love story – even though the legal registration was completed at home, this approach allows you to experience a memorable Japanese wedding.
3. Legal Registration in Japan Followed by a Symbolic Ceremony.
Complete legal process in japan.
Follow the kon’in todoke process at a city hall to learn how to get married in japan legally, ensuring all necessary documents are prepared, the form is completed accurately, and you receive your official marriage certificate.
plan symbolic ceremony.
After completing the legal registration, plan a symbolic ceremony that is tailored to your preferences; incorporate traditional Japanese rituals or choose a beautiful outdoor setting to create a memorable experience.
celebrate!
Finally, celebrate your union with an intimate reception or gathering, combining the certainty of legal recognition with the creativity and personal touch of a bespoke celebration in Japan.
4. Traditional Japanese Ceremony (Shinto Shrine Ceremony).
Pre-Planning and Consultation.
Begin by consulting a reputable local wedding planner who specializes in traditional Japanese ceremonies. They will advise you on the best shrines that welcome foreign couples and help you understand the cultural and ritual requirements. Discuss attire options – many couples choose to wear traditional kimonos, and your planner can arrange for authentic rentals for both bride and groom.
Preparation and Ritual Arrangements.
Arrange a pre-ceremony consultation with the shrine to learn about the ritual cleansing (temizu), offerings, and specific customs to follow during the ceremony. Confirm the ceremonial schedule, including the time for prayers, the exchange of vows, and the purification ritual. Ensure that all participants are briefed on proper etiquette and dress codes that typically involve traditional attire.
Ceremony Day.
Arrive at the shrine well in advance to complete the ritual cleansing and prepare for the ceremony. Follow the shrine priest’s guidance during the ceremony, which may include making traditional offerings and reciting prayers. Enjoy a solemn, respectful ceremony where symbolic vows are exchanged in an atmosphere rich with tradition and cultural significance.
Ceremony Day.
Remember that the traditional ceremony is symbolic only and must be complemented by legal registration (kon’in todoke) at a city hall for your marriage to be officially recognized. Coordinate with your wedding planner to schedule the legal registration as a separate appointment, ensuring all official requirements are met.
need help with eloping in japan?
Want to have curated advice specific to your situation? I help couples get married in Japan, through elopement planning, guidance, and cinematic and candid photography. Jump on a no-obligation calll today and let me understand your story and see how I can help your dream elopement come true!
seasonal wedding considerations
In Japan.
01.
spring.
Spring is the prime time for a Japan cherry blossom elopement, offering stunning scenery that perfectly illustrates how to get married in japan amid natural beauty. Mild weather and blooming landscapes create an ideal atmosphere for a romantic, memorable ceremony.
02.
summer.
Summer in Japan is vibrant and energetic – an excellent season for couples looking to get married in japan in an urban setting like Tokyo. The long days and festive ambiance ensure a dynamic celebration, though choosing venues with indoor or shaded options is advisable.
01.
autumn.
Autumn provides a sophisticated backdrop with its rich colours and crisp weather, making it one of the best seasons to get married in japan. This season offers a serene setting for intimate weddings, often with fewer crowds and flexible pricing.
02.
winter.
Winter offers a cozy, intimate environment, perfect for couples seeking a unique way to get married in japan. With potential for snowy backdrops and lower costs during the off-peak season, winter weddings can be both enchanting and budget-friendly.
the cost of eloping in japan.
Understanding your budget is key to planning a wedding in japan without surprises. My detailed cost breakdown covers legal registration fees, vendor charges, and additional expenses, whether you’re planning a cheap wedding in japan or a luxury affair.
Use my interactive cost calculator to input your preferences and generate a custom estimate, ensuring you know exactly how to get married in japan within your budget.
LGBTQI weddings in Japan.
Evolving Landscape.
Japan’s stance on LGBTQI weddings is steadily evolving, with more regions, venues, and wedding planners embracing inclusivity. In major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, progressive policies and resources are increasingly available for all couples. This shift is creating a more welcoming environment for LGBTQI couples seeking to celebrate their love in Japan.
Legal Considerations.
Currently, same-sex marriage is not legally recognized nationwide in Japan. As a result, LGBTQI couples may need to complete legal registration in their home country while planning a symbolic or traditional ceremony in Japan. It’s important to consult with a knowledgeable wedding planner to understand the legal limitations and options available.
Inclusive Vendor Selection.
Many local vendors now explicitly support LGBTQI weddings, offering inclusive services and a sensitive approach to planning. Couples should seek out planners, venues, and service providers that advertise their support for LGBTQI couples to ensure a respectful and tailored celebration. This proactive vendor selection can significantly enhance your overall experience.
International and Symbolic Options.
Given the legal restrictions, many LGBTQI couples choose to register their marriage abroad and then host a symbolic ceremony in Japan. This approach allows you to enjoy a culturally rich, traditional, or modern celebration in Japan while maintaining legal recognition in your home country. Such options ensure that your wedding day is both meaningful and legally valid on an international level.
Choosing your perfect locations.
Selecting your perfect elopement location is one of the most exciting parts of learning how to get married in Japan. In this section of my ultimate guide, you’ll discover key considerations – from ambience and accessibility to seasonal charm – that help you choose a venue that truly reflects your style.
Whether you’re aiming for a traditional ceremony or a modern celebration, use these insights to find the best places to get married in Japan and create an unforgettable wedding experience.
step 1.
Research Options.
Search online for natural outdoor settings where you can get married in japan, such as gardens, lakeside spots, or temple grounds. Use local tourism sites and social media hashtags like #KyotoElopement to find inspiration.
step 2.
evaluate criteria.
Assess each setting based on factors like weather, privacy, and accessibility. Determine if the location aligns with your vision – whether it’s a Japan cherry blossom elopement or another form of outdoor ceremony – and check for any necessary permits.
step 3.
tour locations.
Arrange visits or virtual tours to experience the ambiance firsthand. This helps ensure that the location meets your practical needs and offers the perfect backdrop for your wedding in japan.
my guide to the best places to elope in japan.
I’ve written up one of the leading lists of the very best elopement locations in Japan to help couples find their elopement location.
Finding Accommodations & Vendors
what do you want on your day?
01.
Explore Lodging.
Explore accommodations that suit your style and budget near your chosen setting for getting married in japan. Compare modern hotels, traditional ryokan, and boutique AirBnBs by reading reviews and viewing photo galleries on trusted travel sites.
02.
Find Vendors.
Compile a list of local vendors – photographers, florists, wedding planners, and makeup artists – who specialise in Japanese weddings. Verify their experience and customer testimonials to ensure they can support your vision of how to get married in japan.
03.
Plan Transport.
Investigate local transportation options, including public transit and private transfers, to ensure smooth travel on your wedding day. Consult local guides for recommendations and confirm all arrangements well in advance.
timeline & checklist for wedding day.
set your timeline.
Begin planning your wedding in japan 6–12 months ahead of your desired date. First, set clear milestones for gathering legal documents, booking your city hall appointment, and securing vendors. Moreover, this timeline helps you know exactly how to get married in japan step by step.
Create Your Itinerary.
Draft a detailed schedule that covers every element of your wedding day. For example, start with early preparations such as hair, makeup, and dressing, then schedule professional photography sessions, the ceremony, and post-wedding celebrations. This clear itinerary coordinates all tasks and ensures a smooth day.
Prepare Your Checklist.
Finally, use this checklist to ensure you bring everything you need on your wedding day:
– Legal Documents: Valid passports, birth certificates, Certificate of No Impediment, and notarized translations. If one partner is Japanese, include the Japanese family register (koseki tohon).
– City Hall Appointment Details: Printed confirmation of your appointment and copies of your completed kon’in todoke form.
– Ceremony Essentials: Attire for the ceremony, backup clothing, and any floral arrangements or décor items.
Vendor Information: Contact details, booking confirmations, and a printed schedule of vendor arrival times.
– Miscellaneous Items: A portable charger for your phone or camera, an emergency kit (first aid, sewing kit), and printed copies of your itinerary and checklist.
Review and update your checklist regularly so you don’t miss any crucial items when you get married in japan.
“The amount of time and effort he took to ensure this was all possible we can’t appreciate enough”
nathan & ashley.
A kyoto elopement.
Hailing from Australia, Nathan and Ashley envisioned a day eloping in their favourite place – Kyoto. However with not much of an idea of how the legal system worked, and wanting a day focused on themselves, they didn’t know where to start.
This is where I came in to help guide them through the whole process, from legal advice to location and timeline curation as well. Read about their experience with me below.
does this all sound a bit like how you envision getting married?
Well then you’re in the right place, friend.
frequently
asked
questions.
your questions answered by me.
You’re naturally going to have a few questions about the whole process. I’m here to give you an answer to anything you’re wondering about.
Feeling overwhelmed by all the details?
If this guide feels overwhelming, don’t worry – I’m here to help you navigate every step of your Japanese elopement journey. I provide personalized assistance with location research, vendor recommendations, and timeline curation, ensuring you choose the best settings and services for your unique vision.
I also offer expert advice on which path to marriage may suit you best, whether it’s a simple legal registration, a symbolic ceremony, or a traditional Japanese experience, along with detailed elopement guides tailored for Japan.
i’m james; your japan elopement photographer and guide
I’m your expert on getting married in Japan, elopement photographer, elopement expert, and road trip dude for the big day when you get to share your vows.
I’ve got your backs.
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Where do we go from here?
01.
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02.
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